Ford Police Interceptor Model History

Acknowledged as a popular choice for North American police departments for the first decade of the 21st century, the Ford Police Interceptor featured many favorable attributes for law enforcement. Based on the Ford Crown Victoria, the Police Interceptor was characterized for its large sedan shape, rear-wheel drive and V-8 engine power. The 2002 Ford Police Interceptor was outfitted with a host of heavy-duty equipment.

Strong rear suspension, larger disc brakes and an external oil-to-engine oil cooler were some of the features used to beef-up the endurance of the Police Interceptor. Power for the Police Interceptor came from a 4.6-liter Modular V-8 engine. Generating 235 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque in 2002, the eight-cylinder powerplant is steadily improved on future models. Increased to 250 horsepower in 2004, the Ford Police Interceptors engine was able to run E85 blended fuel onward from the 2008 model year.

A four-speed automatic transmission handled engine power from the 4.6-liter V-8 powerplant. While the shape of the Ford Police Interceptor remained largely unchanged from 2002 to 2011, a great deal of enhancements was made to the law enforcement sedan through the years. A new hydroformed frame served as the basis for the 2003 model of the Ford Police Interceptor offering an optional side-impact airbags and limited-slip differential. Wheels on the 2006 Police Interceptor were enlarged from 16 to 17 inches while the front doors featured a Kevlar-lining.

Along with improved braking, 2008 model year Ford Police Interceptor models included keyless entry for the first time. After the 2011 model year production of the Police Interceptor, Ford replaced the vehicle with an Interceptor Sedan based on the Taurus.